Report: India detains 167 trans individuals
NLS Queer Alliance reported that some 167 members of the transgender community were detained at least two days in Karnataka state in southwest India, according to 76Crimes.com .
The community quickly responded and organized a protest in response at the Town Hall against the illegality of police action against transgender persons.
A coalition of several organizations—including Karnataka Sexual Minorities Forum, Alternative Law Forum, People's Union for Civil Liberties and Karnataka Janshakhti—has demanded the state government release the detainees and direct that there be no further detentions. In addition, Orinam.net has reported demands for a departmental inquiry into the police officers and compensation to the detainees for wrongful arrest and mental trauma.
Obama issues World AIDS Day proclamation
On Nov. 28, President Obama issued a proclamation for World AIDS Day. Part of it is excerpted below:
"Today, we have transformed what it means to live with HIV/AIDS. More effective prevention, treatment, and care now save millions of lives while awareness has soared and research has surged. This World AIDS Day, we come together to honor all those who have been touched by HIV/AIDS and celebrate the promising public health and scientific advances that have brought us closer to our goal of an AIDS-free generation.
"My Administration has made strides to limit new infections and reduce HIV-related disparities and health inequalities, and we have nearly eliminated the waiting list for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program. For many, with testing and access to the right treatment, a disease that was once a death sentence now offers a good chance for a healthy and productive life.
"Despite these gains, too many with HIV/AIDS, especially young Americans, still do not know they are infected; too many communities, including gay and bisexual men, African Americans, and Hispanics remain disproportionately impacted; and too many individuals continue to bear the burden of discrimination and stigma. There is more work to do, and my Administration remains steadfast in our commitment to defeating this disease."
LGBT issues prominent in 2015 aging confab
Aging in America 2015 will take place March 23-27 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E. Wacker Dr.—and LGBT issues will be significantly covered at the event.
There are almost 20 LGBT-related sessions planned. Among them are "Improving LGBT Inclusiveness of Aging Service Providers," "Being Gay Ain't What It Used to Be" and "Transgender and Queer Perspectives on Sexuality in Later Life."
Also, among the site visits planned is one on March 25, 1-4 p.m., to the LGBT-inclusive Town Hall Apartments in Boystown at Addison and Halsted streets.
The conference will cover many other areas, ranging from mental-health issues to creativity programs to spirituality and religion.
Visit www.asaging.org/aia12 .
